MIDDLETOWN – Newport Mental Health has recently hired Ramona Mello to lead its support group and outpatient programs.
Mello brings her expertise in implementing and conducting evidence-based therapy for adolescents. She also has done extensive work with young children with anxiety, depression and behavioral disorders, such as oppositional development disorder and conduct disorders.
“We’re fortunate and the residents of Newport County are fortunate to have someone with Mona’s knowledge and experience to help us set up group programs for our adolescents and adults. We’re thrilled to have her on board,” said NMH President and CEO Jamie Lehane.
Mello’s previous work includes her focus as the assistant vice president of community-based programs at Child and Family Services of Newport County in Middletown, along with her expertise as a behavioral health consultant to detect early signs of autism in children.
“There’s too much focus on quick diagnoses and labeling to fix things,” Mello said when asked about her views on mental health treatment. “We need to understand that giving someone a label isn’t going to change their behaviors. Intervention is still required. We don’t diagnose someone with a medical condition and believe they will get well without proper treatment for that condition.”
Newport Mental Health’s mission is to improve the lives of children, adults and families living and working in Newport County by providing high-quality, recovery-oriented, evidence-based and integrated mental health and substance use care. NMH serves clients in Jamestown, Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton and Little Compton.
Rob Borkowski is a PBN staff writer. Email him at Borkowski@PBN.com.
